Good morning, Champaign.

On August 12 and 13, 2025, city council members Will Kyles and Davion Williams—along with staff from the Police and Equity and Engagement Departments—joined clap in events at Booker T.

Washington Elementary and Centennial High School to welcome students back. Local partners such as Senator Paul Faraci, Dr. Sullers, and Michelle Gonzales also joined the events to set a positive tone for the new school year.

Ameren is donating an extra $4 million for bill payment assistance to community agencies that help residential customers in Missouri and Illinois after providing $1 million to tornado victims in May.

Joe Solari said the aid comes as families face high energy bills from extreme heat and noted that over $75 million in total energy assistance has been offered throughout 2025.

On August 8, 2025, City Manager Joan Walls and staff from several city departments attended the YES end-of-year celebration at West Side Park to honor nine interns — the event featured food, games and recognition from the YES site coordinator.

Illinois lawmakers raised the mandatory senior driving test age from 79 to 87, so drivers 79 and older now renew their license without a test—drivers with commercial licenses who are 75 or older must still take one.

National Black Business Month Social

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Neil St. Blues — Wing Wednesday Specials available — Celebrate Black-Owned Businesses with community, food, and live entertainment.

2025 Half Century of Progress Show

7 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Rantoul Half Century of Progress Farm Show — Adults $20 per day, $40 for a 4-day Pass — Experience working vintage farm demonstrations and local agricultural history at this premier event.

Full Band Performance at Pour Bros Taproom

9 PM — Pour Bros. Craft Taproom — Enjoy drinks while rocking out to live music performances in a vibrant atmosphere.

An Evening with Andrew Duncanson and Friends

8-10 p.m. — Fire Doll Studio — Cost not specified — Experience an intimate night of music with Andrew Duncanson and a talented lineup of friends in a cozy setting.

Teen Summer Program Concert

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Orpheum Champaign — Free entry — Experience the creative talents of local teens at this exciting showcase of music, dance, and arts.

PMP Certification 4-Day Classroom Training

9 AM – 5 PM — HQ — Training fee applies — Gain essential project management skills with hands-on learning and expert guidance.

Bollywood Party - Welcome Week!

9 PM – 2 AM — The Axe Bar — $10 Pre-Sale, $15 General Admission, $20 at the door — Experience the biggest Bollywood party with nonstop hits and high-energy dancing!

Western Illinois Leathernecks at Illinois Fighting Illini Football

6:30-8 p.m. — University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — Ticket prices vary — Watch a riveting college football matchup featuring the Leathernecks and Fighting Illini.

BEAUTI BASH 2025

7-9 p.m. — Orpheum Champaign — Food and drinks included — Celebrate glamour and beauty at this fabulous event featuring talented local stylists.

Champaign Labor Day Parade and Celebration

11 a.m. — Downtown Champaign — Free entry — Celebrate Labor Day with a parade, picnic, food, and family-friendly activities.